Energy Storage System at Indigrid Substation in Dhule for Increasing Solar Energy Utilization by Energy Shifting

Introduction:

AHE has successfully implemented a 100kW / 233kWh, liquid cooled energy storage system at Indigrid’s transmission substation in Dhule, Maharashtra with the aim of enhancing solar energy utilization through energy shifting and minimizing diesel consumption from diesel generators during grid outages. This is one of the first liquid cooled Li-ion energy storage systems commissioned in India.

Objective:

The primary objective of installing the energy storage plant at the substation was to maximize the utilization of excess daytime solar energy for substation auxiliary loads during peak evening hours between 6-10PM, where net metering is not applicable. Additionally, the BESS was also planned for reducing the reliance on diesel generators during grid outages. This approach aimed to optimize renewable energy usage, reduce operational costs, and minimize environmental impact.

Implementation:

The 100kW / 233kWh Li-ion energy storage system with CATL cells was installed and commissioned in March 2023 and seamlessly integrated into the substation’s power infrastructure. Since its installation, the ESS has been cycled daily, typically charging at night between midnight to 6AM from net metered solar power and discharging during peak tariff evening hours between 6PM to 10PM. Solar energy utilization has increased and effective energy tariff has reduced. This has positively impacted Indigrid’s operational costs, as well as reduced their carbon footprint.